Does Humira cause hair loss?
It is unclear whether Humira (adalimumab) directly causes hair loss. Hair loss was not reported as a side effect in clinical trials, but some individuals have reported alopecia (hair loss) after using Humira post-approval. Because these reports are voluntary and come from an unspecified patient population, there is no conclusive evidence linking Humira to hair loss.
Can Humira Cause or Treat Hair Loss?
- Potential Hair Loss Link: Some case reports in medical journals suggest a possible connection between Humira and hair loss. However, more research is needed to confirm a direct relationship.
- Potential Hair Growth Benefits: Interestingly, other case reports indicate that Humira may help treat certain forms of alopecia. Researchers believe genetic factors and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels may influence whether Humira leads to hair loss or hair growth in different individuals.
Common Side Effects of Humira
The most common side effects of Humira include:
- Upper respiratory/sinus infections
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling, itching, burning, rash)
- Headache
- Rash
- Nausea
More research is needed to fully understand the link between Humira and hair loss, but current evidence remains inconclusive.
References
- U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Humira. December 2018. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/125057s410lbl.pdf [Accessed June 9, 2022]
- Abbvie. Humira: Important Safety Information. Available at: https://www.humira.com/#isi-anchor [Accessed June 9, 2022]
- Zschoche C, Bidier M, Hadaschik E. Alopecia areata during treatment with adalimumab: therapy with an alternative TNF-alpha inhibitor is possible. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2013 May;11(5):450-3. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddg.12027
- Gorcey L, Spratt EAG, Leger MC. Alopecia Universalis Successfully Treated With Adalimumab. JAMA Dermatol. 2014;150(12):1341–1344. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2014.1544. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/1913664
Read next
How much does Humira cost without insurance?
The average cash price of Humira (generic name: adalimumab) without insurance is around $7,300 for 1 carton (2 pens) of 40 mg/0.4 mL using an online coupon, but most people do not pay this much. Your actual cost will depend upon which Humira product you need, your coupon savings, if you have insurance, and any manufacturer's savings. Continue reading
What happens when you stop taking Humira?
If you stop taking Humira. your medical condition may worsen. Withdrawal side effects are not likely to occur with Humira, but your signs or symptoms (based on your condition), like joint pain and inflammation, stomach pain or diarrhea, or structural joint damage may worsen or return. Do not stop taking Humira unless you and your doctor agree this is the best course of action. Continue reading
Does Humira cause weight gain or weight loss?
The manufacturer of Humira does not list weight gain or weight loss as a possible direct side effect associated Humira. However, other conditions, symptoms, or medications may affect your weight while you are using this medication. Clinical studies have also shown weight gain with Humira. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Humira Information for Consumers
- Humira prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Humira (detailed)
- Humira user reviews (701)
Related support groups
- Humira (69 questions, 370 members)